ideaMaker
Raise3D
Free Raise3D slicer for FDM and DLP printers: full parameter editing, adaptive settings, textures from images and STEP import.
Get it from the vendorThe CAD category here holds four quite different kinds of tool, and it is worth not confusing them.
- 2D drafting — layers, blocks, dimensions and DXF files. For work that is mostly plans and details.
- 3D parametric modelling — a history tree that lets you go back and change a dimension without rebuilding. This is what mechanical parts and assemblies need.
- Code-based modelling — you write the solid as a program, and every dimension is a genuine parameter. Powerful when you need a family of parts rather than one part.
- Electronics design — schematic and PCB layout, which is CAD of an entirely different kind.
The common trap is DWG. Most free tools work well with DXF and open formats, but full support for current DWG is usually reserved for paid versions. If you exchange files regularly with an office running AutoCAD, check this before you commit.
Full comparison: Free CAD Software — Every Comparison on the Web, Summarised in One Place
71 results
IQcad
IQSoft
2D CAD for civil and tunnel work: TIN surfaces, point clouds and alignments. Free to use; licence terms not published.
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JS.Sketcher
xibyte
A parametric 2D and 3D CAD sketcher that runs in the browser.
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JSCAD
JSCAD Project
Build 3D models by writing code, in the browser or from the command line.
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JT2Go
Siemens Digital Industries Software
A free viewer for JT and Parasolid files with measurement, sections and PMI display — common in automotive and machinery supply chains.
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KiCad
KiCad Development Team
Open-source PCB design suite, from schematic to fabrication files, with no limit on layers or board area.
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Kiri:Moto
Grid.Space
A browser slicer and toolpath generator — 3D printing, CNC milling, laser cutting and resin printing.
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LaserGRBL
Arkypita
G-code sender and image/vector converter for laser engraving and cutting jobs on GRBL-based machines.
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LeoCAD
LeoCAD project
Free open-source program for building virtual LEGO brick models — an educational tool for spatial thinking and 3D design.
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LibreCAD
LibreCAD Project
Lightweight 2D drafting with layers, blocks and dimensions, built around the DXF format.
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Lima VVA
Lima VVA (open-source project)
Road design and earthwork quantities for small and medium projects — alignment, cross-sections and volumes.
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Linkage
David M. Rector
Sketch and animate planar linkage mechanisms — to study motion paths, speeds, gears and cams.
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Mayo
Fougue
3D CAD viewer and converter — STEP, IGES, BREP, STL, glTF and OBJ — with measuring tools and clip planes.
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MeerK40t
MeerK40t project
Open-source laser cutting and engraving software supporting K40, GRBL, Ruida, Moshiboard and galvo laser controllers.
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ODA File Converter
Open Design Alliance
Batch conversion of DWG and DXF files between versions, with audit and repair — free for non-commercial use only.
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Onshape (free plan)
PTC
Parametric CAD in the browser with version control. On the free plan every document is public.
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OpenSCAD
OpenSCAD
Code-based 3D modelling where every dimension is a real parameter. Popular in 3D printing.
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OpenVSP
NASA
NASA parametric aircraft geometry modelling for conceptual design.
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OrcaSlicer
OrcaSlicer Project
A slicer with built-in calibration tests — for precise printer tuning.
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PrusaSlicer
Prusa Research
Turns a 3D model into printable G-code, with full parameter control.
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QElectroTech
QElectroTech Project
Draws electrical panel and control diagrams from standard symbol libraries.
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SolveSpace
SolveSpace Project
Lightweight parametric modeller with a strong constraint solver, for mechanical parts and mechanisms.
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Sweet Home 3D
eTeks
Draw a floor plan and see the room in 3D as you go.
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TinyCAD
TinyCAD (open-source project)
Electrical and electronic schematic drawing with symbol libraries, PCB netlists and SPICE export.
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